Richard Laurent and Alex Devereux at ZIA|Gallery

Richard Laurent uses classical approaches to oil painting to create metaphorical works tied to Magic Realism. Laurent’s sometimes startling, amusing, thought-provoking and/or whimsical imagery compels the viewer to delve deeper into his fluid world. Laurent has an impressive and varied creative career. His paintings are found in private and permanent collections including Wachovia’s corporate office, Illinois Institute of Art, Deloitte Consulting, and Bodine Electric. In addition, he has two large commissions at the Schaumburg Convention Center. Laurent says of his artistic inspiration, “The natural world isn’t a tidy place at all. It is extraordinary and unpredictable.”

ZIA|Gallery introduces Alex Devereux’s photorealistic acrylic paintings. Devereux chooses to portray un-peopled views of everyday structures and equipment. Emphasis is on mood, light (both the presence and absence of) and clean shapes. His technique strives to deny the brush. Corners of quintessential Chicago and mid-western sites prevail. Growing up, Devereux’s biggest influence was his grandfather who was a commercial artist for major American corporations.

Alex Devereux and Richard Laurent- Painting: Photorealism and Magic Realism, runs from March 9 – April 13, 2013. The opening reception is Saturday: March 9, 4 – 7:30pm, ZIA|Gallery, 548 Chestnut St., Winnetka, IL 60093. As always, all are welcome. The event is free and an opportunity to enjoy viewing art, meeting the artists, and asking questions. The gallery is located two short blocks from the Winnetka Metra Station.